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DOJ Officials Give 42 Recommendations for Spokane Police

The US Department of Justice released a one year reportFriday on the Spokane Police Department, giving 42 recommendations. The collaborative review shows administrative and leadership problems, but asserts Spokane police do not routinely using too much force.

Ron Davis directs the Department of Justice COPS program and said this is only the second review of its kind. He says with policing issues arising nationwide, five or more reviews will happen next year.

Davis:“Spokane has the ability, has the opportunity… to not only be a part of that process but to lead it and be able to show the task force, the country on best practices on how to engage the community and build trust.”

The review in Spokane arose from the 2006 death of Otto Zehm, a developmentally disabled man who was beaten by police.

The 42 recommendations for the Spokane Police Department have a lot to do with the administrative process for use-of-force cases, and policies taught to officers. The Department of Justice will conduct a follow up review in six months in Spokane.

Copyright 2014 Spokane Public Radio

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